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Definition of dramatize

dramatize

/ˈdræm.əˌtaɪz/
(UK: dramatise)
dram · a · tize
Adverb:dramatically
•
Adjective:dramatic
•
Past Simple:dramatized
•
Past Participle:dramatized
•
Present Participle:dramatizing
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dramatize Lexical Profile

dramatize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To adapt a novel, historical event, or non-dramatic work into a play, film, or television script for performance.

Example

"The acclaimed playwright was commissioned to dramatize the classic nineteenth-century novel for the national theater."

2

To exaggerate the seriousness, excitement, or emotional intensity of a situation to make it seem more striking or important than it really is.

Example

"Tabloid newspapers frequently dramatize minor disagreements among public figures to attract more readers."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for dramatize

• Rhymes for dramatize

• Nearby Words

dramatics
dramatist
dramatization
dramatize
dramedy
drape
drapery

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 18th century from the noun 'drama' (from Late Latin and Ancient Greek 'drāma', meaning 'deed, action, or play') combined with the verbal suffix '-ize'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dramatize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 1, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dramatize
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